One of the best war movies of recent years is on TV tonight

Inspired by real events, the film won three Oscars.

Set during World War I, the movie follows two young British soldiers named Will and Tom (played by George MacKay and Dean-Charles Chapman) who are tasked with a seemingly impossible mission.

The pair must cross over into enemy territory to deliver an important message to call off a doomed offensive attack.

If the two are successful, they could potentially save 1,600 of their fellow comrades - as well as Tom's own brother.

Inspired by real-life tales told to Mendes by his grandfather, Alfred Mendes, who served in WWI, 1917's ensemble cast also includes Andrew Scott, Benedict Cumberbatch, Colin Firth, Mark Strong and Richard Madden.

Upon its release in 2019, the movie was highly praised by critics - specifically for its one-shot-style cinematography and its hard-hitting depiction of trench warfare.

Nominated for 10 Oscars, the war drama wound up winning three - Best Cinematography (the film was shot by the legendary Roger Deakins), as well as Best Sound Mixing and Best Visual Effects.

1917 is airing on TV tonight on BBC Two at 11.30pm.

Here are some other movies on TV tonight:

The Predator - E4 - 9pm

When a young boy accidentally signals the galaxy's most lethal hunters who set course for Earth, former soldiers and a scientist attempt to prevent the end of the human race.

The Woman in Black - BBC Three - 10pm

2012 horror based on Susan Hill's novel, with Daniel Radcliffe and Ciaran Hinds.

The Dark Knight - ITV1 - 10.35pm

In the sequel to Batman Begins, the masked hero finds a new ally in his war on organised crime in Gotham's crusading new district attorney, Harvey Dent.

Hairspray - ITV2 - 6.45pm/7.50pm

2007 musical comedy starring Nikki Blonsky, Michelle Pfeiffer, Christopher Walken, James Marsden, Queen Latifah and John Travolta.

Hard Kill - Legend - 1.45am

A team of mercenaries guarding advanced new technology must rescue the kidnapped daughter of its inventor.